I was watching the Haven prices carefully as our Oct 13 departure date to Bermuda neared and prices began to drop. I was hoping for an Aft Haven Penthouse, but that price did not drop to what I felt I could afford. About a month before our sail date, I called NCL and upgraded our Aft cabin to a Haven Forward Facing Penthouse H7. Be it known that I am far from wealthy and have not cruised or taken a major vacation since 2008 because of tight finances, but things have improved enough that I felt I could splurge on this trip.

I know everyone wonders about what things cost, so I will tell all. I originally paid a total of 3,613.00 for two guests in the Aft balcony cabin (if this seems like a lot, please know that NCL charges more for aft rooms due to the panoramic views), this total included taxes, port fees, tips, 3 specialty dinners, beverage package, $100 off excursions for 2 and a $100 on-board credit. I upgraded to the Haven for an additional $600 pp. Bringing my total for a Haven penthouse to 4,813 or 2,406.00 pp (I kept all my perks, except for the $100 on-board credit, so you can add $100 to my total if you wish). On most NCL Escape NY/Bermuda itineraries, this penthouse sells for about $3,800 pp, so I felt I got a great deal and I was thrilled to have an opportunity to experience the Haven.

Boarding was a breeze, we arrived at about 11am and were escorted as Haven guests to a private room where our id cards were issued, we barely had time for a sip of water, before being asked to come aboard. My husband was so excited he seemed quite tongue tied when an NCL worker flirted with him… I assure you, this is far from his normal self. It probably took less than 20 minutes from entering the terminal to getting on the ship. Read more